While browsing a quaint market in Santorini, the vibrant colors, aromas, and warmth beckoned me to explore the local cuisine. This experience inspired me to recreate a dish that captures the essence of the Mediterranean—the Greek Meatball Bowl. With tender, oven-baked meatballs nestled atop roasted potatoes and surrounded by a refreshing salad, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing friends at gatherings. Plus, it’s meal prep-friendly, making it an ideal choice for those who want to save time without sacrificing flavor. Get ready to dive into a world of wholesome ingredients and delightful textures—aren’t you curious about how to bring a taste of Greece straight to your kitchen? Why Try This Greek Meatball Bowl? Flavorful Fusion: This Greek Meatball Bowl blends tender meatballs with crispy roasted potatoes and a zesty tzatziki sauce for a deliciously vibrant meal. Healthy Option: Baked instead of fried, it’s a guilt-free comfort food that’s still satisfying. Meal Prep Magic: Easy to assemble in advance, this dish simplifies busy weeknights. Customizable Components: Swap proteins or vegetables to suit your taste—try ground lamb or even quinoa for a twist! Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it to impress guests or enjoy a comforting dinner with family. For more Mediterranean goodness, check out my delicious Chili Chicken Bowl or the flavorful Bang Chicken Bowl. Greek Meatball Bowl Ingredients • Get ready for a culinary delight! For the Meatballs Ground Beef – The heart of the dish, packed with flavor and protein. Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses the meatballs with aromatic depth; garlic powder works in a pinch. Onions (2 medium, minced or blended) – Adds a sweet note and pleasant texture; shallots or leeks can be used instead. Breadcrumbs (2 tbsp) – Binds the meatball mixture; opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. Baking Soda (1 tsp) – A secret ingredient to keep your meatballs tender and light. Fresh Herbs (1 cup, parsley, mint, coriander) – Introduces vibrant flavors; feel free to mix and match with dill or basil. Olive Oil (3 tbsp total; 1 for meatballs, 2 for potatoes and tzatziki) – Enhances moisture and flavor; avocado oil is a suitable substitute. Salt (1/2 tsp) – Essential for flavor; adjust based on dietary needs. Black Pepper – To taste; fresh cracked offers bold seasoning. For the Roasted Potatoes Potatoes (6 medium, cut into wedges) – Hearty and filling; sweet potatoes can be a nutritious alternative. Cumin (1/2 tsp) – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor; omit if you prefer. Paprika (1/2 tsp) – Brings color and subtle smokiness; chili powder adds a bit of heat if desired. Dried Oregano (1/2 tsp) – Classic Mediterranean flair completes the dish. For the Tzatziki Sauce Greek Yogurt (1 cup, thick) – The creamy base for your tzatziki; switch to dairy-free yogurt if preferred. Cucumber (1/2, grated and squeezed) – Gives the sauce refreshing crunch; the flavor is one-of-a-kind! Garlic (1 clove, for tzatziki) – Enhances the tasting experience; feel free to cut back or skip if desired. Lemon Juice (1 tbsp) – Brightens the sauce; a splash of vinegar offers a tangy boost as well. Fresh Dill or Mint (0.3 cup, chopped) – Contributes to fresh flavor; mix it up with any herb you love. For the Salad Bowl Lettuce (2 cups, roughly chopped) – The perfect base for your assembly; substitutes like spinach or arugula also work. Tomatoes (2 medium, chopped) – Juicy and colorful, adding freshness to each bite. Cucumbers (2, chopped) – Crunchy goodness; bell peppers make a great swap too. Red Onion (1/2, chopped) – Offers a zesty kick; use sweet onion for a milder taste. Kalamata Olives (1/2 cup, pitted and halved) – A burst of saltiness; feel free to personalize with your favorite olives. Extra Fresh Herbs (for garnish) – Elevate the presentation and flavor at your dining table. Now that you have all these lovely ingredients for your Greek Meatball Bowl, you’re just a few steps away from creating a delightful culinary experience! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Greek Meatball Bowl Step 1: Prepare Meatballs In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, minced garlic, chopped onions, breadcrumbs, baking soda, and fresh herbs. Add olive oil, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper, then mix thoroughly with your hands until evenly combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld for your Greek Meatball Bowl. Step 2: Bake Meatballs Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Once heated, shape the meatball mixture into uniform balls and place them on the baking sheet with space between each. Bake for 30-40 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Step 3: Roast Potatoes While the meatballs bake, prepare the potato wedges by tossing them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Spread the seasoned wedges on a separate baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer. Roast in the same oven for 40-60 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are crispy and golden brown. Step 4: Make Tzatziki Sauce In a medium bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated and squeezed cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir until well combined and season with salt to taste. Refrigerate the tzatziki sauce to allow the flavors to develop while the meatballs and potatoes finish cooking. Step 5: Assemble Bowl Once the meatballs and roasted potatoes are ready, start assembling your Greek Meatball Bowl. Layer the bottom of a serving bowl with roughly chopped lettuce, then add a generous portion of diced tomatoes, chopped cucumbers, and red onion. Top it off with a few meatballs, roasted potatoes, and kalamata olives. Drizzle with tzatziki and garnish with extra fresh herbs for a delightful presentation. Make Ahead Options These Greek Meatball Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatball mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the ground beef, garlic, onions, breadcrumbs, and herbs, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. The tzatziki sauce can also be made up to 3 days ahead—just mix the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain quality, ensure the roasted potatoes are made fresh the day of serving for that crispy texture. When ready to serve, bake the meatballs and roast the potatoes, then assemble your Greek Meatball Bowl, and enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort! Expert Tips for the Best Greek Meatball Bowl Rest the Mixture: Allow the meatball mixture to rest for at least 2 hours in the fridge. This helps flavors meld and enhances the overall taste of your Greek Meatball Bowl. Equal Sizing: Shape your meatballs to a uniform size to ensure even cooking. Too large or small, and you risk undercooking or drying them out. Crispy Potatoes: Keep potato wedges spaced apart on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will steam them instead of roasting, making them less crispy. Squeeze that Cucumber: For the tzatziki sauce, squeeze all moisture from the grated cucumber. This ensures a thick and creamy consistency, avoiding watery sauce. Customize with Care: Feel free to swap proteins or vegetables, but ensure cooking times are adjusted accordingly for the best results in your Greek Meatball Bowl. What to Serve with Greek Meatball Bowl Elevate your dinner experience with these delightful side dishes and drinks that perfectly complement the vibrant Greek Meatball Bowl. Creamy Hummus: This velvety dip adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the fresh elements of the bowl. Serve with pita chips for added crunch. Crispy Greek Potatoes: Roasted with olive oil and herbs, these soulful potatoes echo the crispy texture of the ones in the bowl while enhancing the Mediterranean theme. Classic Greek Salad: A refreshing medley of tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives offers bright flavors that balance the hearty meatballs. Tzatziki Kebab Sliders: Mini sliders filled with tzatziki sauce and grilled veggies add protein and a fun twist, making your meal interactive and engaging. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini provide a colorful touch, adding both flavor and healthy crunch to your dining experience. Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink option that cuts through the richness of the meatballs, elevating your meal without overpowering the flavors. Baklava: For dessert, this sweet pastry filled with nuts and honey complements the hearty meal with its light, sweet finish, inviting a little indulgence into your evening. These diverse pairings will create a memorable dining experience, each bite reminding you of the sunny Mediterranean shores! How to Store and Freeze Greek Meatball Bowl Fridge: Store meatballs and roasted potatoes in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. Keep tzatziki sauce separate to maintain freshness. Freezer: Freeze meatballs and potatoes for up to 2 months for a delicious meal anytime. Just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Reheating: For best results, reheat meatballs and potatoes in the oven to restore crispiness. Tzatziki should be enjoyed fresh, so make a new batch if possible. Assembly: When ready to eat, simply layer the fresh salad ingredients and warm meatballs for a quick and satisfying Greek Meatball Bowl experience. Greek Meatball Bowl Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing your Greek Meatball Bowl in delightful ways that suit your cravings! Ground Lamb: Swap ground beef for ground lamb for a richer flavor that perfectly complements the Mediterranean theme. Quinoa Base: Replace the roasted potatoes with cooked quinoa for a protein-packed, gluten-free meal option that adds a lovely texture. Sweet Potatoes: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular ones for a sweeter, nutritious twist that pairs beautifully with the savory meatballs. Dairy-Free Tzatziki: Make tzatziki with dairy-free yogurt to ensure everyone can enjoy this refreshing sauce. The taste remains delightful and creamy! Zesty Spinach: Add sautéed spinach to the salad base for an extra layer of nutrients and a delightful pop of color. Spicy Kick: Toss in a chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for those who enjoy a little heat in their meal. Herb Fusion: Experiment with different herbs in your tzatziki by swapping dill for fresh basil or cilantro for a unique flavor profile. Chickpea Option: For a vegetarian alternative, use mashed chickpeas mixed with breadcrumbs to create savory meatballs that pack a punch! Remember, these variations will not only change the flavor profile but will also turn your Greek Meatball Bowl into a personalized meal experience! If you’re looking for more inspiration, why not try our scrumptious Chili Chicken Bowl or the vibrant Bang Chicken Bowl? The Mediterranean awaits your culinary explorations! Greek Meatball Bowl Recipe FAQs How do I select the right ground beef for the meatballs? Absolutely! When choosing ground beef, look for an 80/20 (meat to fat) blend for moist and flavorful meatballs. Fresh ground beef should be bright red and have a firm texture. Avoid packages with dark spots or excessive liquid, which indicate aging. How should I store the Greek Meatball Bowl components? You can store each component separately in airtight containers. Meatballs and roasted potatoes will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, keep tzatziki in a separate container and consume within 2-3 days for best flavor. Can I freeze the Greek Meatball Bowl? Absolutely! For freezing, cool the meatballs and potatoes completely, then place them in airtight freezer bags or containers. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) until hot and crispy again. What should I do if my meatballs are dry? If your meatballs turn out dry, it could be due to overcooking or not using enough moisture in the mixture. Ensure you’re using the right fat content in the ground beef, and don’t skimp on the olive oil or water when mixing. For juicier meatballs, you can also incorporate a little grated zucchini or carrot next time! Are there any dietary considerations for the Greek Meatball Bowl? Yes, consider any allergies or dietary preferences! If gluten is an issue, use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatballs. For dairy-free options, substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative in the tzatziki. Always double-check any additional ingredients like olives or seasonings for potential allergens. How can I customize the ingredients in my Greek Meatball Bowl? The more the merrier! You can easily swap proteins—try ground lamb or turkey for a different flavor profile. For the salad base, spinach or arugula can replace lettuce, and feel free to add any of your favorite veggies. Experiment with herbs for the tzatziki, like basil or cilantro for a unique twist! Savory Greek Meatball Bowl to Brighten Your Dinner Table This Greek Meatball Bowl blends vibrant flavors from the Mediterranean, packed with nutritious ingredients and delightful textures. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrResting Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meatballs1 lb Ground Beef The heart of the dish, packed with flavor and protein.3 cloves Garlic, minced Infuses the meatballs with aromatic depth.2 medium Onions, minced or blended Adds a sweet note and pleasant texture.2 tbsp Breadcrumbs Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.1 tsp Baking Soda Keeps your meatballs tender and light.1 cup Fresh Herbs (parsley, mint, coriander) Introduces vibrant flavors.3 tbsp Olive Oil Enhances moisture and flavor.1/2 tsp Salt Essential for flavor.Black Pepper To taste.For the Roasted Potatoes6 medium Potatoes, cut into wedges Hearty and filling.1/2 tsp Cumin Adds warmth and depth.1/2 tsp Paprika Brings color and subtle smokiness.1/2 tsp Dried Oregano Classic Mediterranean flair.For the Tzatziki Sauce1 cup Greek Yogurt, thick Creamy base for your tzatziki.1/2 Cucumber, grated and squeezed Gives the sauce refreshing crunch.1 clove Garlic, for tzatziki Enhances the tasting experience.1 tbsp Lemon Juice Brightens the sauce.0.3 cup Fresh Dill or Mint, chopped Contributes to fresh flavor.For the Salad Bowl2 cups Lettuce, roughly chopped The perfect base for your assembly.2 medium Tomatoes, chopped Juicy and colorful.2 Cucumbers, chopped Crunchy goodness.1/2 Red Onion, chopped Offers a zesty kick.1/2 cup Kalamata Olives, pitted and halved Adds saltiness.Extra Fresh Herbs For garnish. Equipment mixing bowlBaking sheetParchment papermedium bowl Method Preparation StepsIn a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, minced garlic, chopped onions, breadcrumbs, baking soda, and fresh herbs. Add olive oil, salt, and black pepper, then mix until evenly combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Shape the meatball mixture into uniform balls and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.Toss potato wedges in olive oil, salt, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Spread on a separate baking sheet and roast for 40-60 minutes, turning halfway through.In a medium bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped dill. Refrigerate to develop flavors.Layer a serving bowl with chopped lettuce, then add tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion. Top with meatballs, roasted potatoes, olives, and drizzle with tzatziki. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg NotesRest the meatball mixture for at least 2 hours for the best flavor. Customize your proteins and veggies as desired. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
